Estimator (Associate)

Department: Estimating
Location: Remote
Position Type: Full-Time, Salary (Exempt)
Reports To: Director of Estimating & Vice President of Sales Operations

About the Role

Colony Display is seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to support the successful bidding and execution of retail fixture, millwork, and display programs. This role is responsible for evaluating project specifications, engineering drawings, supplier pricing, and manufacturing requirements to produce accurate, competitive estimates that support profitable business decisions.

Working closely with Sales, Engineering, Operations, Procurement, and trusted vendors, you’ll play a critical role in helping Colony Display win new business while ensuring projects are properly planned from the very beginning.

Responsibilities

Review bid specifications, customer drawings, and project documentation to prepare complete and accurate estimates.
Gather labor, material, and manufacturing cost information from vendors and internal departments.
Select competitive pricing strategies while maintaining profitability.
Coordinate with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and vendors to resolve estimating questions and determine accurate lead times.
Develop and maintain detailed estimating files and project documentation.
Process project revisions and re-runs while maintaining quick turnaround times.
Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend alternative manufacturing processes when appropriate.
Provide budgetary pricing information to Sales and Marketing teams.
Request supplier quotations for materials, components, and specialty manufacturing processes.
Develop and maintain standard estimating data to improve efficiency.
Interpret engineering drawings and prepare material take-offs.
Determine manufacturing methods, equipment requirements, labor, programming, setup operations, and material needs.
Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Production, and Prototype teams to ensure accurate pricing and realistic production timelines.
Prepare reports and project summaries as required.
Fill in design or specification gaps when necessary to complete project estimates.
Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and subcontractors.
Conduct project site visits when additional information is needed for accurate quoting.
Verify that all RFQs and project documentation have been thoroughly reviewed prior to submission.

These responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature of the position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support departmental and company objectives.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of estimating experience within the retail fixture, millwork, display, or manufacturing industry.
Experience with steel and wood fixture manufacturing is preferred.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and production methods.
Excellent mathematical and analytical skills with the ability to calculate estimates, costs, and profit margins accurately.
Comprehensive knowledge of retail store fixtures and display manufacturing.
Strong computer skills including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and other Microsoft Office applications.

What Makes You Successful

Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
Self-motivated and capable of managing multiple estimates simultaneously.
Strong communicator who builds trust with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
Strategic thinker who balances competitiveness with profitability.
Ability to influence others while maintaining Colony Display’s core values.
Collaborative team player with excellent problem-solving skills.

Benefits

Our team members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance.
Employer-sponsored Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance.
Generous paid time off including company holidays, vacation, sick time, and personal days.
401(k) eligibility with a 4% company match.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Colony Display is committed to building an inclusive workplace where every employee is respected and valued. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants with disabilities throughout the employment process. If you require an accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources team.

If you’re passionate about manufacturing, problem-solving, and helping deliver exceptional retail environments, we’d love to hear from you. Join Colony Display and help transform concepts into successful projects for nationally recognized brands.

Estimator (Associate)